A collaborative action research approach to developing statewide information technology standards supporting the Delaware Education Network

This study used both qualitative and quantitative methods in an Action Research (AR) process to develop IT standards to support the K--12 public schools in Delaware. A Collaborative Action Research (CAR) process included participants from 18 school district and 4 state agencies. A detailed review of AR processes as well as theoretical foundations provided an underpinning for the processes and methodologies employed in the study. The CAR process involved a series of 5 sessions over a 7-month period, in which the participants identified, selected, developed, and voted to accept 25 IT standards that support the Delaware Education Network. As a result of discourse throughout the sessions, participants perceived themselves more knowledgeable regarding IT standards and better able to support the achievement of their district's mission through appropriate IT implementation and utilization.